Bibliograph

A history of Alcatraz Island 1853-2008, Gregory L. Wellman

Type

Label

A history of Alcatraz Island 1853-2008, Gregory L. Wellman

Language

eng

Bibliography note

Includes bibliographical references (p. 127)

Illustrations

facsimilesillustrationsmapsportraits

Index

no index present

Literary Form

non fiction

Main title

A history of Alcatraz Island 1853-2008

Nature of contents

bibliography

Oclc number

237131093

Responsibility statement

Gregory L. Wellman

Series statement

Images of America

Summary

As one of America's most notorious prisons, Alcatraz has been a significant part of California's history for over 155 years. The small, lonely rock, known in sea charts by its Spanish name "Isla de los Alcatraces, " or "Island of Pelicans, " lay essentially dormant until the 1850s, when the military converted the island into a fortress to protect the booming San Francisco region. Alcatraz served as a pivotal military position until the early 20th century and in 1934 was converted into a federal penitentiary to house some of America's most incorrigible prisoners. The penitentiary closed in 1963, and Alcatraz joined the National Park Service system in 1972. Since then, it has remained a popular attraction as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Table Of Contents

California gold, the U.S. Military, and a new purpose for Alcatraz Island -- Alcatraz evolves under the Federal Bureau of Prisons: 1933-1963 -- Life and times of the notorious: the prisoners of Alcatraz -- Watching over the island: wardens, guards, and personnel: 1934-1963 -- Wives, sons, and daughters of Alcatraz: 110 years of family life on Alcatraz -- Native American occupation, National Park, and American icon: 1963 to 2008

Classification